Biyaheng Norte: 5 Places to Visit During the APEC Holiday

Do something productive during the holidays by going on a northern adventure!

The APEC Summit brings several world leaders together to discuss economic growth, but it also brings with it a set of several holidays. For government workers and students, this means no work and classes the entire week, and for private companies, a two-day holiday. This is the perfect time to go out of Metro Manila and unwind on a well-deserved vacation.

The northern part of Luzon is perfect for those quick getaway trips from the metro. With that, allow us to entice you with 5 awesome places to visit in the north.

1. BaguioBaguio is the ideal place to escape the scorching heat of the metro. The weather in the area is slowly dropping these days and the promise of a chilly morning awaits. There are dozens of things you can do like picking strawberries, going horseback riding, and even going on a food trip at the Ketchup Food Community. If you are craving for a cool getaway, then Baguio is the place to be.

2. ViganVigan is one of the New 7 Wonders Cities. It is bustling with culture and you will be transported back to the Spanish era the minute you step on its cobblestone streets. A must-do is visit the famous Calle Crisologo as well as go thrift shopping and try their famous longganisa. A trip to Vigan will probably take about 7-8 hours. It may seem long, but compared to the horrible traffic in Metro Manila, it’s a better alternative to getting stuck on the road.

3. PangasinanIf you really want to explore what Northern Luzon has to offer, then you must head to Pangasinan. The province has several different areas you can visit, each bringing a different kind of experience, from the Hundred Islands National Park to the Cape Bolinao Lighthouse. Don’t forget to grab some of their famous bangus and Puto Calasiao before heading back to Metro Manila.

4. BalerWhat can be more appealing than the sand and surf? If that’s the type of vacation that appeals to you, then why not head to Baler for the holidays? You can bum around the beach and just surf the day away. You can also explore the history and culture of the area by visiting the Baler Catholic Church and Quezon's Resthouse. Baler is pretty much filled with things to doand exploring the province is just as fun as experiencing what it has to offer.

5. ZambalesIf you are the type of person who enjoys outdoor activities, then you should head to Zambales. You can go on hikes or treks at Mt. Pinatubo, explore the beaches at Anawangin Cove and Potipot Island, or even try wreck diving in Subic Bay. Even if you aren’t into outdoor activities, there are other things you can do like watching the dolphins at the Ocean Adventure, having close encounters with the tigers at Zoobic Safari, or going shopping in the many outlet malls in the area.